“Obesity is a major health challenge that is diminishing the quality of life of people in our community,” said Patrick Young, president of Aetna’s Mid-Atlantic Region small and middle market business. “Our children are particularly at risk. Along with organizations like the Weller Center, Aetna is working to get people thinking about what they can do to combat obesity, and to provide support as they make the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes.”
Through this program, called Niños en Acción, thousands of children from the Allentown School District will participate in measurable, school-based programs on nutrition and physical activity. These programs, for students in grades one, three, six and eight, will be delivered by the Weller Health Education Center’s staff of health educators. The Weller Center will also reach this community with family education nights and parent programs to supply vital information on how to cook, shop and increase physical activity at home.
“Philanthropic efforts such as this good deed by Aetna, and embraced by the Weller Center on behalf of Allentown’s children, is very much appreciated,” says Karen S. Angello, Ph.D., Superintendent, Allentown School District. “On behalf of ASD’s children, I want to thank both organizations for supporting and expanding best wellness practices in our schools.”
The Allentown School District is the fourth largest in Pennsylvania with 71 percent considered economically disadvantaged. Recent Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings of elementary students in Allentown revealed that more than 40 percent of the students were overweight or obese. Studies show that decreased physical activity and poor nutrition can result in lower achievement in school. Improving physical health and nutrition are vital to helping these children get healthier, achieve academic success and experience a better quality of life.
“The statistics show we have some work to do to improve the health of our children,” according to Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski. “Weller can redouble our efforts to promote healthful food choices and increased physical activity. We are just beginning, but with the ACHIEVE initiative and now with our partnership with Weller, we are opening up even more opportunities to work with an extraordinary team of people to advance policies in improving the health of our children.”
A press conference announcing this partnership and offering additional details will be held at Ritter Elementary School, 740 North Plymouth Street, Allentown, PA, Thursday, October 29 at 11:00 a.m. Mayor Ed Pawlowski will be presiding.